Boxers of 12 years and below are receiving training in different local clubs as part of Rwanda Amateur Boxing Association’s plan to popularize the sport.

According to one of Raba’s coaches Moses Mpiima, this step will no doubt yield off tangible results.

"Starting the sport at a tender age lays a very good and solid foundation for future boxers,” he says.

Boxers in this range are referred to as ‘Benjamines’ and normally weigh between 29kg -40kg.

 ‘These benjamines will make up a good cardet team in five years’ time and gradually form a stronger national team,’ Mpiima said adding that training such individuals would help in the integration of boxing in schools.

Over ten benjamines are currently training with the seniors at the Amahoro gym, Kimisagara and Inkuba boxing clubs.

"We have asked all the clubs to hand in the number of benjamines at their disposal.

We want to determine the exact number we are dealing with,” the federation’s technical director Gashuji Kananura said.

The first ever benjamine bout has been scheduled for November 8-11 at Amahoro Stadium.

According to Mpiima, the number of benjamines has steadily increased over time following September’s inter-club competitions.

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